Alternative DVT Treatments
DVT Treatments
Disadvantages & Risks
Venous foot pumps are employed as a therapeutic device for mitigating deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by stimulating the natural pumping action of the foot’s muscles to enhance blood flow in the lower extremities, thereby mitigating the risk of clot formation. These devices typically consist of mechanical components such as inflatable bladders that are rhythmically inflated and deflated beneath the foot, controlled by an electronic pump mechanism. This process is designed to mimic the physiological actions that occur during walking, promoting venous return and reducing stasis of blood in the veins. Despite their efficacy in clinical settings, the complexity and sophistication of the mechanical components of these venous foot pumps present notable disadvantages. Firstly, their design and operation make them less suited for self-application by people outside of a clinical environment, requiring professional assistance for correct usage. Secondly, the cost associated with these advanced mechanical systems renders them an expensive treatment option. This expense and the need for professional oversight limit their accessibility and convenience for continuous, everyday use by individuals at risk of or managing DVT outside of healthcare facilities.
Alternatives to these venous foot pumps for mitigating deep vein thrombosis (DVT) include pharmacological treatments, such as anticoagulants ( e.g. warfarin, heparin and direct oral anticoagulants) which reduce the blood’s tendency to clot, and mechanical devices like graduated compression stockings and intermittent pneumatic compression devices. Compression stockings work by applying pressure to the legs, supporting the veins and reducing the risk of blood pooling and clot formation. Intermittent pneumatic compression devices use air-filled cuffs that periodically inflate and deflate, mimicking the pumping action to enhance blood flow.
However, each of these alternatives comes with disadvantages. Anticoagulants, while effective in preventing and treating clots, can increase the risk of bleeding and require regular monitoring to ensure safety. Graduated compression stockings, although beneficial for reducing swelling and improving blood flow, may be difficult for some people to put on and wear for extended periods. Intermittent pneumatic compression devices can be effective but are often bulky, limiting mobility and making them impractical for use outside of a clinical or home-based setting.
These limitations highlight the importance of individualised assessment to choose the most appropriate DVT treatment strategy.
The CLOTBuster® In-Flight Passenger Foot Pump seeks to provide a way to overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiences of these other devices.
The CLOTBuster® In-Flight Passenger Foot Pump is a therapeutic medical device designed for self-administered therapy for mitigating deep vein thrombosis (DVT) risks, particularly useful in settings like long-haul flights but also applicable in home environments.
The device features a compressible member tailored for foot engagement, enabling repeated compression actions by the user to promote venous return in the leg.
The core element has been selected for its elastic properties, allowing it to compress and then return to its original shape once the applied pressure is removed, allowing for relatively constant force across a large deformation range due to its viscoelastic nature, as compared to pneumatic or spring-based counterparts.
The device is lightweight (64 grams), portable and cost-effective, making it an accessible option for individuals to self-administer prophylactic measures against DVT in situations where movement is restricted.
The clinical study using Doppler Ultrasound has confirmed its efficacy in significantly improving blood flow in the popliteal vein during use, demonstrating its potential as an intervention against deep vein thrombosis (DVT).